Concept Topics
Nano-Coatings, Materials & μ-Energy
The Materials(1-3) sessions will introduce nano-coatings, nano-materials, and μ-energy
related projects and identify / define project concepts. These concepts will address
critical needs for space and defence systems, namely MNT coating among others, for
rapid materials prototyping, and if successfully demonstrated, will lead to rapid
adoption by the space and defence industries. Concept Presenters will provide workshop
participants with the technical and programmatic background necessary to evaluate
the current status in terms of technological maturity of nanostructured thermal
protection/radiation shielding materials, potential space applications, and the
challenges involved in this technology development.
Nanostuctured materials could potentially withstand the severe environmental conditions
associated with vehicles re-entering the earth atmosphere from space. The use of
nano-powders has been proposed for enhancing the survivability of protective coatings
on re-entry vehicle surfaces. Other ruggedization approaches include the optimization
of the matrix properties of composite materials (thermomechanical, thermophysical,
oxidation resistance, damage tolerance) at the nanostructural level (submicron-particle
reinforcement). Potential applications of such functionalized nanomaterials include
oxygen/ corrosion resistance at high temperatures (1100 - 1600°C), such as in thermal
protection systems for launch and re-entry vehicle technology.
Sensors, Packaging & Reliability
The Sensors(1-3) sessions will introduce micro-sensors, micro-actuators and micro-switches,
packaging and reliability related projects and identify and define project concepts.
These concepts will address critical needs for space and defence systems, namely
MNT-based sensors and/or sensor networks coupling with wireless communication and
miniaturized power sources, if successfully demonstrated, that will lead to rapid
adoption by the space and defence industries.
Additionally, progress being made in the area of semiconducting nanostructures,
such as nanowires, is expected to lead to the development of ultra-compact and power-efficient
optoelectronic devices, which may ultimately replace traditional, gas or solid-state
detectors and lasers. Such devices if successfully realized will have many applications
in space systems.